Episode 130

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Published on:

17th Feb 2026

Inside Tomball with Mayor Lori Klein Quinn

Tomball, Texas is one of the rare communities that has experienced explosive regional growth without losing its identity.

In this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Mayor Lori Klein Quinn to explore how Tomball has intentionally planned its future—while fiercely protecting its past.

Founded in 1907 and once known as Oil Town USA, Tomball has evolved from a railroad and farming town into one of the most desirable small cities in the Greater Houston region. With just 14 square miles, Tomball has used smart zoning, proactive transportation planning, strong regional partnerships, and community-first leadership to maintain a true hometown feel—even as major highways, population growth, and development surround it.

In this conversation, Mayor Quinn shares:


How zoning reshaped Tomball’s growth strategy

Why the city pushed back on TxDOT to preserve Main Street

The role of award-winning schools and Lone Star College

How Tomball balances festivals, heritage, and economic development

Why long-term planning means thinking 30 years ahead, not 3

If you are interested in Texas cities, small-town preservation, economic development, or civic leadership done right, this episode is a must-watch.

👉 Plan your visit to Tomball

👉 Learn how intentional leadership shapes lasting communities

👉 See why Tomball is truly a Hometown with a Heart

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About the Podcast

The Building Texas Show
The Building Texas Show with host, Justin McKenzie, about the balance of business and governance. Each week, we’ll interview the local leaders affecting the issues and uncover the power you have to forge the future.

www.buildingtexasshow.com

About your host

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Justin McKenzie

Based in Boerne, Texas, Justin hosts The Building Texas Show—a podcast spotlighting the bold minds shaping the future of the Lone Star State. When he’s not building teams or building momentum, he’s out exploring, discovering new ideas, or connecting with the people who make it all worthwhile.

As Chief Operating Officer at Charity Ace, Justin helps shape the engine behind the mission—bringing sharp strategy and innovative structure to fuel long-term growth. He believes in business as a force for good, and shows up every day to prove what’s possible when purpose meets execution.